As part of a yearlong overhaul of its channel program, enterprise workspace management solutions company AppSense has rolled out a series of partner program changes to become more "channel-friendly" and drive more business for partners.

The parent company of vendor management software company Beeline has acquired freelance management company OnForce for an undisclosed amount, in a deal the two companies said would provide an end-to-end solution to position solution providers for an exploding market for freelance talent.

Microsoft is planning to get more aggressive about closing volume licensing opportunities that come in through its retail stores, but partners that sell licensing say this could take a bite out of their revenue.

XChange Solution Provider 2015 is finally upon us and the timing couldn't be better. The premier channel event is happening March 1-3 in Dallas, bringing together 225 solution provider decision makers from across North America. CRN is at the event to provide news, analysis and a firsthand take from partners.